146 more gifts for a total of 762

 So I ended May 5th I think it was - with 616 and realized how far behind i was - so here are 146 more.

So 616 plus 146 =    762 Gifts

1. Three of my grandkids came with their parent to hear my first service sermon
2. Positive feedback on sermon
3. Tears re: conversation that took place around Brandon on trip back (UGLY BEAUTIFUL)
4. Quiet reflection 
5. Deciding to back off from texting people - alleviate stress
6. More tears (U.B)
7. Being told “I Love You” from my husband
8. Watching my grandkids reactions
9. Wednesday with Maverick
10. More airport time with Maverick
11. Listening to Maverick explain planes
12. Watching life through Mav’s eyes
13. Seeing Maverick waving and pilots waving back
14. Hosting 3 generations of retreaters
15. Chatting with / hosting long time friend
16. Butter shortbread cookies
17. Earl Grey tea with cream and sugar
18. Supper with W & B
19. Steak on BBQ - yum
20. God spoke through Josh’s sermon
21. Hugs from Sunday school kids
22. Matilda invite to competitive Synchro
23. Backing video with Matilda and friends
24. Spontaneous lunch pic up from Grace can - and eating at Ashley’s with Leah and Ash on  her break
25. Key Lime pie
26. Mother’s Day Lunch - ordered in from Olive Garden
27. Spending time with Roger while Alvin took Ev to BB at the school
28. Tiramasue - so yummy
29. Playing baseball with Maverick and his new bat and ball - he is so happy about it
30. Letting Maverick buy a bicycle horn
31. I preached on Mother’s Day
32. Seeing his joy with the sound of the horn
33. Watching Maverick fly around the loop on his bike
34. Hearing the horn
35. Worship songs
36. Watching Sofia sing
37. Seeing Amelia doing the camera at church
38. Hug from Cheryl
39. Praying with Robyn
40. Blanket on our wall with the beautiful pics of the grandkids
41. Orchid growing - year 2.
42. Sucking up the Asian beetles in the hand held vac
43. My Bible <3
44. Reading Cliff’s blog
45. Cheering while hockey was on
46. Dropping off cheque at CRA for WRATW
47. Jam and peanut butter on toast
48. Everything bagel toasted wtih cream cheese getting warm under my bed duvet
49. Working through my own thoughts regarding “Granny on a Mission” 
50. People donating
51. CHVN Sylvia doing an interview/story
52. Giving Lindy a hug
53. Donations of crocheted bears
54. Wednesday early morning prayer time
55. Dill pickle soup recipe
56. Fresh biscuits
57. Pancakes with syrup and butter 
58. Talking with girls re: Cali and dates
59. Recalling my time at the Mark Centre silent retreat
60. Anticipation of our trip to Kelowna
61. Anticipation of our first VW convertible ride - hopefully soon
62. Beauty of the hydrangeas that were given to me as a bouquet
63. Friends who give bouquets for no reason at all
64. Hug and chat with S.H
65. Watching Maverick make a new friend
66. Short phone call and catch up with Curin
67. Long weekend ahead
68. Opening the cabin after a long winter
69. Hearing that St Clements renamed Colonization Road to Reconciliation Road
70. So far so good - still Covid free
71. Fresh sliced Cara Cara oranges
72. Making and serving breakfast for retreater (Desta)
73. Sound of working sump pump
74. Fireplace warming up the morning coolness
75. Knowledge of people gathered and praying for Kilcona
76. Friendship with Desta from Sioux Lookout
77. Watching tiny sparrows at feeder
78. Alvin helping/working with Michael & Elmer
79. Alvin able to pull Josh’s trailer out of mud
80. Putting $88 in my gas tank (UB)
81. Purples shampoo brings white lustre back to my grey hair 
82. The feel of freshly brushed teeth
83. Mike’s new red truck
84. Ashley’s 4 day work week
85. Matilda Joy’s half birthday - 9 1/2
86. Short visit with Pat - it has been a long time
87. Roger and Ev played at Investor’s Group Stadium - flag football
88. Sermon on Peace: Reconciliation and Forgiveness by Josh
89. Ashley’s creative birthday cake for Matilda
90. Rick sent the link for the Chicken Claw
91. Sending hamburger supper to Darren
92. Reds Tree Co cutting more of our willows
93. Songbirds singing
94. Afternoon nap because I am so tired
95. Foyer talks with Lorrie
96. Meeting new people
97. The sight of a full parking lot for women’s breakfast
98. Homemade cinnamon buns
99. Cherie Kupes talk (YWAM Africa)
100. Josh’s home made fries for family gathering
101. Klassen hugs 
102. Meeting my nieces boyfriend 
103. Watching the Lunar eclipse
104. Some QT alone time at Starbucks
105. Oatmeal with all the toppings
106. Psalm 91: 1-7
107. Water color painting in my Bible
108. Drop off donation from our besties - and an impromptu visit
109. The snow is GONE!
110. Smell of Spring
111. Relief finally from eye issues (with spring allergies?)
112. Seeing the garden twinkle lights in the dark night
113. Conversation with Luanne over chat message - she is so lovely
114. Poplar’s making my eyes hurt but they are blooming!  (UB)
115. Grass is green
116. No covid talk at the family gathering
117. Hearing a new song
118. Compliment re my character on facebook.  Positive but humbling
119. Gave Sabina money for her niece in the DR
120. My manicure
121. Snail mail to Sofia
122. Shortest ever church meeting on an important vote
123. Church vote passed!
124. Watching Everett with his friend at church
125. Roger’s first touchdown
126. Klassen gathering - almost everyone there (Wpg crew anyhow)
127. More pics of the twins!
128. Playing Farkle with friends
129. Eyes feeling better!
130. Rain (UB)
131. Small sparrows at feeder
132. Loons in the marsh
133. Seeing baby goslings
134. Seeing Kelly Milan for my foot PF issue
135. Meeting Lezley the social worker
136. Car loaded full of donations for Jordan’s Principle - Peguis First Nation
137. Being settle regarding the donations/givers etc
138. Buds on trees
139. Early morning breakfast at Smitty’s with Meggie
140. Texting with my niece Sarah
141. Tapdancing memories
142. Writing letters to my kids and grandkids
143. 26 ABC Verses recited by Theodore Parker Bennett - amazing
144. Alvin and Mike repairing ost shingles on our roof from the crazy wind!
145. Early morning smell of maple bacon
146. Cute story on the news about the toddler who ordered 30 something cheeseburgers from McDonald’s along with a 16 dollar tip - on his mom’s phone

71 more makes a total of 616 Gifts

 And on and on we go - as I drive on our way home from Calgary - I am counting gifts:

1. regarding my hearing app - I found out my hearing loss is minimal
2. if I wanted to, and hard the money *sigh - hearing aids would help with the constant ringing in my ears
3. hearing that Leah got the letter from Alvin 
4. chatting with old friends and relatives at the Q conference
5. taking the boys and Sundae how for the weekend
6. hearing my grandkids say I LOVE YOU GRANNY
7. being thanked by a grandchild
8. anticipation at what is in store for Kilcona Park Alliance Church
9. snuggles with Sundae as I slept the night on the couch
10. tucking in my two oldest boys for the night - prayer time and kiss good night
11. watching Everett play basketball - he had a good game
12. impromtu fill in at SS for Mrs. Coralee
13. meeting an old friend at church and having a visit
14. car packed and ready to go to Calgary
15. staying over night in Swift Current
16. Meeting our little great grand nieces Cleo and Hazel in person
17. Hugs from family 
18. seeing the moutains from afar - I am always in awe
19. glass of wine and good conversation with Ray & Ellie
20. coffee and visit with my nephew - it has been a while
21. babysitting the little twins while their parents go our for 3 hours
22. sweet baby noises
23. smiles from Cleo - and being told by her daddy that she doesn't give too many but I experienced quite a few
24. a good sleep at the end of the day
25. hugs from Gord and Janice
26. hugs from Celeste and Joel
27. beautiful flower bouquests picked up for Ellie and Celeste upon our arrival there
28. seeing my nephew so happy
29. listening to SiriusXM all the way to Calgary and back - love the music 
30. facetiming with Ash and the kids while away
31. yummy food that Elleanore made for supper
32. pizzas made in their new outdoor pizza oven
33. cheaper gas in Calgary
34. thankful that our kids are okay with collecting the paper and watering the plant - thanks Michael I think
35. converstaion around the topic of which I am writing a sermon - Peace begins in the home
36. once again realziing while we are away that our kdis and grandkds are such incredible gifts to us
37. songs that make me think and eflrect on life like ex It's Okay to Cry - It's Okay to Fall Apart
38. safety while travelling
39. good gas mileage
40. roadside washrooms that need to be accessed in a hurry lol
41. good coffee while travelling
42. hours of conversation with Alvin
43. seeind the bds on the trees in Calgary and seeing trees we have never seen before
44. seeing the carriage house complete 
45. counting the blessing of family
46. wrestling with the sermon writing
47. tumbleweeds
48. seeing so many baby calves in the pasture
49. thankful it is so nice to travel to Calagary and back in a new car
50. sunshine through the window
51. warm heated seats that feel good
52. windmills
53. sharing our Fudgeoos and Chips Ahoy
54. ability to use my phone as a hotspot when the internew would not connect
55. taking my sister in law for a pedicure
56. old houses that I woud love to know story behind 
57. good highways to travel on in SASK and ALBERTA
58. remembering my mom on the 26th anniversary of her death
59. anticipating Heaven
60. thankful for our health
61. the beautiful blue color of the Bow River
62. a long walk around the Bow River Park
63. Leo Mol bear statues in the park
64. sheep in the field - lots of them
65. hearing the heart of Cliff D. blog as he shares his story
66. the power of words
67. seeing a bird carry a big stick for a nest
68. watching Zeke play in the river - but only so far in lol
69. seeing farmers in their fields
70. 23 degree C weather as we drive.  Summer!
71. dust storms and then clear travels

So 71 added to the previous 545 so this brings us to a total of 616 Gifts to date.

Recognzing gifts in the second half of 1000

 Today is Thursday and I am thankful.  On that note, here are some gifts that I wish to record.

501    Notes on bathroom mirrors

502    Hot showers 

503    Medications to help regulate things like heartburn and thyroid

504    The Q conference

505    Specialist appointment with Dr. Levin was moved closer

506    Hands free phone calls in our car

507    Brown Sugar Oat Milk Iced Espresso - so yummy

508    a good nights sleep

509    booking flights to travel with my sisters - this is a first

510    anticipation for travel

511    sister in laws who love me (not everyone is so lucky)

512    chocolate covered almonds

513    losing one more pound for a total of 9

514    remembering how much Awana played into my life as a kid, and into my kids lives

515    subway lunch at conference

516    home made bread toasted with melted butter and a thin layer of peanut butter

517    my tooth extraction sight has completely healed

518    morning phone call with sister (H)

520    afternoon phonecall with my SIL (J)

521    anticipation of having the boys and Sundae for the weekend

522    snow melting slowly and revealing garden paths

523    Listening to session on parenting - at Q conference

524    Mailing birthday letter to Leah as per Josh's instructions :)

525    Typing up Alvin's letter to Leah.  We thank God for her as our daughter

526    Seeing the picture of Maverick and his Mom today - so sweet

527    Maverick sent me some pics of green hearts that he made out of play dough

528    Getting to know women at KPAC better with each event that brings us together

529    Leftovers for supper

530    Hearing that W got his trach out and thanking God for small miracles

531    Clear Highways

532    Listening to John Neufeld on CHVN as we drive.  He is so down to earth

533    finding a parking spot today

534    my hearing has not changed too much

535    tweezers in my car lol

536    accepting when you have to step back and let things go

537    instagram stories

538    warmth from the wood stove and the light it casts

539    smell of burning wood outside    

540    hymns that I grew up with

541    remembering the night I gave my life to Jesus when I was 7 and a half

542   my daughter giving me a compliment about being like my mom was!

543    waking up in the morning and getting another chance at life!!

544    dusty boots that remind me that they have carried me places

545    Alvin helping our neighbour Ellen with spreading gravel on her driveway

More gifts ... and a slight miscalculation lol

 So we stopped off at 396 and today is Day 38  oops!!  Day 46!

And  I realize that I am WAY WAY behind - seems I made a bit of a calculation error.  I had told the women who I am studying One Thousand Gifts with - that if we are together for XX weeks - it is 12 per day.  And for some reason I thought when I last posted, that I was on Day 33.  WHAT???  

So we should be at Gift #552 but I finished off at #396 so I am way way way behind ... so here goes:

397  Subway lunch for Josh and Alvin (working together today again)

398  Car ride to Selkirk

399. Hot fudge Sundae from DQ

400.  making Strawberries with chocolate and white chocolate drizzle

401.  going to the shower at KPAC for Baby Nikki

402.  sitting at a table with my daughters and their friends

403.  laughter and antics of younger women who make me smile

404.  Saturday country drive and conversation (to LaSalle) with my husband

405.  Sweet Man who is so knowledgable and capable

406.  Reading 1000 Gifts in the car while I wait

407. Eucharisteo and the importance of that in my life:  grace, thanksgiving and joy

408.  hopefully the last kick at the winter cat (Colorado Low again)

409.  trees swaying in the wind

410.  thunderstorms in April (could be snow)

411.  helping Bottle & Cork with Kim and Kevin

412.  fellowship over appetizers

413.  conversation in the back seat of the Tuscon

414.  Missing the big potholes!

415.  Sunday school teaching with two kids - Maverick and Everly

416.  great sermon on Sanctification by Jordan

417.  a good car to drive in during this wintry weather

418.  Alvin is an amazing driver - I feel so safe

419. a roof that 99.9% does not leak (small leak in garage)

420.  thankful for our working sump pump

421.  a son who is knowledgable and helps out his Father in Law with septic issues

422. whitecaps on the river (a sight to behold)

423.  foyer conversations

424. sideview mirrors that defrost automatically so you can see

425. coming home to hot soup

426.  having the money to buy groceries

427.  stores that are well stocked

428. Everett's first basketball game was a win!

429.  Sunday Morning Praise on CHVN

430.  Laughter as the kids play a video game

431.  watching as Maverick and Roger interact more and more

432.  so much fun watching all 4 play video games

433.  Sundae looking around the house for crumbs

434. playing the Llama gave with Ash and Matilda

435.  dreaming

436.  talking about our trip to California

437.  fresh air

438.  family all together for lunch afterall today

439. the snow and rain have stopped!

440.  Lemon Cheesecake goodness

441.  thoughts of my Mom

442. zoom call and conversation with Luanne

443.  Peace in our country

444.  Sermon prep or at least thoughts

445.  impromptu visit here with Tracy

446.  Watercolour Painting in my Bible

447. knowing my daughter loves journalling in her Bible too

448.  having Bibles tucked away with journals to give to my grandkids one day

449.  the water is receding

450. FINALLY SNOW AND RAIN HAS STOPPED

451.  umm the sweetness of Cadbury mini eggs

452.  phonecalls with Elleanore

453.  texts from Joel (Celeste) thanking me for the knit baby blankets I sent

454.  pics of Cleo and Hazel

455.  knowing our Calgary family is eager to see us

456.  recalling the times that we farmed and I was helping too

457.  watching Dr. Pol brings back memories

458.  sending a book to Ellie in the mail

459. the song: It's Okay to Fall Apart - so beautiful and touching

460.  so lovely - sunshine on my face

461. early morning hot tubbing with Alvin

462.  experiencing love

463.  being the recipient of Alvin's love language - acts of service

464. seeing my Sweet Man fast asleep in the chair

465.  Alvin's willingness to go and work with Josh when he needs him

466. airplane watching with Maverick again

467.  sitting, snuggling while watching INSIDE OUT with Maverick

468.  Maverick's energy today

469. Ice cream cones at Half Moon

470.  $50 bucks of gas in the gas tank (grateful we can afford it)

471. filet mignon and ribs

472. losing weight one pound at a time

473.  juncos kicking seeds out of the feeder

474.  watching Alvin trying to get the squirrel (squirrel always wins)

475.  pelicans and loons - and more pelicans

476.  catnapping in the white chair with the sun coming through the window

477.  Spiritual Direction zoom with Cathy

478.  my CPAP machine

479.  chocolate covered almond goodness

480.  enouraging Luanne to check out SippChai cafe

481.  Mrs. C's message regarding Will's trach coming out

482.  being thankful for my health

483.  itchy hands has stopped

484.  friends who text to see how we are

485.  plans to surprise someone (shhhh)

486.  specialist appointment to test ears again

487.  booking people into the fall

488.  secured one grant position

489.  deck is no longer icy and makes walking easier

490.  the Q conference we can go to for free at Church

491.  my daughter who comes and figures out my computer issues

492.  the beauty of my orchid on the window - I have not killed it!

493.  getting rid of the asian lady beetles in the room - they are so gross - thankful for my Dustbuster!

494.  rumpled beds upstairs means one thing - the kids were on them and that's okay!

495.  fresh bread made by my grandson - his pictures were priceless

496.  Matilda Joy T's baking youtube

497.  the joy of Maverick knowing he had a date with his Momma today

498.  seeing a picture of Matilda on her date with her Dad to the Jets game.

499.  Alvin saying no to a job! (setting some new boundaries and feeling good about that)

500.  making hot chocolate for my Maverick

... the last 52 will come tomorrow.

My Gratitude/Gifts for Today - Day #33

a "sticky note" by Ann Voskamp

Friday and I am going to continue to list the Gifts:

385. Email thanking us for being older/wiser voices that speak into their lives as young parents

386.  Recalling our youth, but knowing we are in the best time of our lives as grandparents

387.  the smell of diffusing oils

388.  hearing there is nothing wrong with my hips verified by exray

389.  patchouli in my perfume (Karma by Lush)

390.  being loved by my inlaw kids (I do not take that for granted)

391. ability to listen to books while I am walking

392.  seeing pelicans with new eyes - observing the lumps on their beaks and googling to find out why

393.  stillness

394.  a new friendship wherein I see that "iron DOES sharpen iron"

395. knowing I am forgiven!!  Thank you Jesus.  Basking in Resurection glow

396.  hearing God speak, and writing the conversation 

 

331 and counting

 "Thanksgiving 

always precedes the miracle."   

page14, One Thousand Gifts Study Guide   

So here we go ...

331.  dry shoulders to walk on at the side of the road

332.  seeing that the pelicans have returned to the river

333.  water running over the locks under the bridge

334.  ice chunks piled on top of each other

335.  conversations on the massage table

336.  a hug from Trudy

337.  impromptu coffee chat with my daughter Leah

338. tasty dill pickle soup

339.  childcaring Maverick on a Tuesday 

340.  watching the planes at St. Andrew's Airport

341.  delivering a meal for someone we love

342.  teachers at Dr. Hamilton and Rober Andrews School

343.  refilling the peanuts for the Jays

344.  last minute cancellation

345.  supper with the board and their spouses

356.  Story telling from our School Days

357.  watching Alvin doing an impromptu snow clearing in the cemetery beside us

358.  the smell of ham cooking

359.  Matcha Bubble Tea from Three Six Tea

360.  impromptu lunch with my daughter Ashley

361.  being asked to preach (but having to decline due to commitment)

362.  journal writing

363.  song WHO IS WORTHY?

364. sunshine on my face as I walk

365.  not wearing a jacket

366.  Lush shampoo with sea salt

367.  watching deer in a field

368.  seeing the water running in the ditch

369.  CHVN radio

370.  honest salesmen who tell you to wait for a iphone deal

371.  potatoes with sour cream

372.  sound of singing birds as the sun sets

373.  sending hand knit baby blankets in the mail

374.  smearing Vick vaporub on sore feet

375.  family pictures

376.  the sound of Maverick playing the harmonica while his mom sings at bedtime

377.  unexpected delivery of Red Lake Coffee

378.  twinkly lights in the garden

379.  anticipation of SPRING

380.  the privilege to stand in the gap in prayer for people

381.   face kisses

382. gooey puffed wheat cake

383.  water-colour painting in my Bible

384.  Alvin helping Josh with the firewood and tree cutting 

        

1000 gifts ... eleven years later ....

 Oh my goodness - the last time I wrote about 1000 gifts was 11 years ago - where does time go!

11 years ago my friend Josie and I were recording 1000 gifts but somewhere, it seemed I stalled out at 50.  

And here we are today - and I am leading the Bible Study on One Thousand Gifts based on the book of the same title by Ann Voskamp - a Christian woman/author from Ontario.  Every two weeks a group of us who have been meeting for the past many years meets and spends 2-3 hours together - chatting, reflecting, watching a video, doing some "talk back", and praying with each other.  

We are meeting every two weeks, for six sessions and tonight we are on Session 3.  I have figured it out that if we write out 12 gifts a day, for the weeks we are meeting as a group - we will hit 1000 by the time we are done!  Seems like a tall order when you say ONE THOUSAND.  However, when we say 12 a day - who can't think of twelve?

Eucharisteo which is what Ann brings us to reflect on - is about grace, thanksgiving and joy.  Ann said that "the height of my "chara" joy - depends on the depths of my "eucharisteo" thanks" and boy do I believe that.

This study - which I highly suggest you do for yoruself - is about looking at our lives - seeing where "eucharisteo is the answer to the time starved and soul famished" person.  Sometimes we may not see the "gifts" till much later - OR maybe we will only see that in Heaven.   Even in the mundane - we need to open up our eyes to the beautiful eucharisteo.

I know myself that God surprises us when we least expect it.  I also know that often I live a life that is so hurried - that I miss out on the beauty around me.  Eucharisteo teaches us about slowing down - about resting - about just "being" and about taking our cue from Jesus who modeled the need to rest and just be, and spend time with His father.  Really - if Jesus (being Jesus) needed to rest - and to renew/refresh and just be .... then who are we to think we don't? I never understand that concept personally.  I have learned the hard way in my life about slowing down, and breathing, and just spending time with Him.  

ANYHOW ... doing this study has taken me back to doing the 1000 Gifts count.  

So Here I go again - listing the gifts - Eucharisteo - GRACE, THANKSGIVING and JOY here in black and white - on this blog post!!

1. my grandchildren - Jay (in Heaven) Everett John, Roger Thomas, Matilda Joy and Maverick Chandler 
2. "Sisters Loved by God" the women I do Bible Study with here
3. quiet evenings with no commitments
4. Bible Study zoom calls
5. being prayed for
6. my sweet Man's eye specialist (after his eye stroke he has been under his care)
7. spending time at The Forks
8. the crunch of ice under my feet when I walk
9. bumping into my sister-in-law unexpectedly and getting a hug
10. my doctor's listening ear
11. blood work that was done effortlessly
12. honeyglazed timbits
13. a cup of dark roast coffee with cream from Tim Hortons
14. comfy beds
15. my daughter's birthday and spending time with her
16. melting snow
17. pedicures by Sabina
18. Ceasar salads at Grace Cafe
19. converstaion over coffee with my daughter
20. Skor cheesecake - yum (we shared)
21. smell of a new car
22. coming home to a cleaned house (thanks Harley)
23. heart to heart conversation with a younger woman
24. hugs
25. drives with Alvin
26. warm house to come home to
27. River road drive to Selkirk
28. more melting snow (Spring?)
29. Manitoba freedom
30. Aero Bubbles chocolate
31. smell of chocolate cake baking
32. fresh roasted Red Lake coffee
33. grandeur of a bald eagle
34. the hello from a stranger
35. big white chair by the window
36. hot pizza for lunch
37. my hands mixing pastry
38. my sweet man's willingness to help young single moms in need
39. the love of my sweet man
40. country driving
41. downy wood peckers at the feeder
42. fellowship over a meal
43. apple pie
44. hugs from my kids
45. waking from a good nights sleep
46. cozy beds and bedding
47. puppingsitting Winston
48. clear blue sky
49. flitting chickadees
50. another good cup of coffee
51. 18% coffee cream
52. the sound of turning pages
53. the taste of peppermint
54. puppy enjoying the snow outside
55. impromptu visit by a friend
56. a written thank you note
57. the warmth of fireplace in the early morning
58. after lots of cold wind - there is no wind
59. the sound of my fountain
60. twinkling lights on the white branch tree
61. breakfast out with older siblings
62. laughter of my grandchildren
63. welcoming home my kids after a trip
64. the song of a Blue Jay
65. mrmories poppin gup on my facebook page
66. dishwasher cleared out and dishes put away
67. dishwasher reloaded 
68. morning stilness
69. memory of a fun but deep church meeting
70. converstaion with best friends over breakfast
71. fresh (unlimited) coffee at the restaurant
72. the warmth of the mug in my hands
73. smell of fresh laundry
74. the crunch of the gravel under my feet
75. Ashley beginning a new joy
76. side eye expression of Maverick
77. the soft fur of a puppy
78. hugs from our Sunday School children
79. sound of clothes drying in the dryer
80. meeting new friens at church
81. Pastor Bruce and Nancy
82. early morning snuggles
83. feel of comfy quilt on me, over me, around me 
84. wind gentrly moving tree boughs
85. monday night time with women
86. my time with God
87. grass showing in the yard
88. geese flying and landing in field
89. my son praying voer me before I leave for BC
90. feeling the soft fur of Sundae
91. te strong arm of my husband as I walk on the ice
92. Kissing good-bye at the airport
93. seat 10A man offered to put my carryon on top in the rack
94. seeing the majestic Rockies
95. the smell of BC
96. walking across the tramac to the airport
97. Seeing Mt. Lehman
98. stepping into my room at the Mark Centre (feels like home again)
99. labrynth in the yard - walking it
100. walk in the neighbourhood
101. going without a jacket
102. rental car that I can easily figure out and drive (and it was an upgrade)
103. sleeping under fluffy quilt (although alone)
104. talking with the grounds keepers at TMC
105. Sippchai Cafe
106. the deliciousness of the Chai Latte
107. the amazing owner and how he relates to people - Jaz
108. driving to Arnold
109. impromptu visit to friends of my friend T - always up to meeting people
110. the smell of freshly baked donuts in my back seat
111. flooded area combined with the green of new growth
112. MDS trailer at 1 house in Arnold
113. counrtyside driving to Chilliwack
114. impromptu visit with my niece Rachel
115. beautiful bouquet of flowers I brought for her
116. seeing sheep in fenced area
117. babbling brook
118. the surprised and happy look on Rachel's face
119. coffee and chat with her
120. small pebble hail briefly falling, hitting the window
121. cute signs that bring a smile "We think you are pretty awesome"
122. walk down Old Yale Road to Fish Trapp Creek entrance
123. Birth of Hazel Jo 
124. Birth of Cleo Elleanore 
125. safe arrival of twins
126. happy pics of the new parents
127. squirrels chasing one another
128. cool breeze but still jacketless
129. facetime with Alvin 
130. text from Ashley "I love you Mostest"
131. green tinged sidewalks everywhere at TMC (because of the weather/moss etc)
132. window open all night
133. morning coffee brewed on tiny coffeemaker
134. McDonald's pancakes and sausage with sweet syrup
135. The Mark Centre and its vision
136. cinnamon jellybeans
137. 15 kinds of donuts at SippChai cafe - have to smile at that
138. the way SippChai staff greet and say good-bye to every single patron
139. a glass of red wine before bed
140. a guy named NORM in a scooter in SipChai and treated royally
141. Hot Chai Latte - HUGE MUG - #2
142. Mom and her adult son having coffee together at SC
143. paying for the person behind me at McDonalds
144. seeing two friends picking out donuts for their coffee together and saying "and I'll have something disgusting to eat" as she knew she would be eating so much sweet!!
145. ability to come and get away to Abbotsford
146. ability to climb steps - there is alot of them to my room and down again
147. my blundstones - they have covered many miles
148. driving with my window down
149. Steffany G's music Faith of my Father - playing in car
150. hearing God speak to me
151. Cathy Hardy's song "Come to the Table"
152. Hot Chai Latte number 3
153. thankful for the challenge to stop and give thanks
154. coersation in the airport at Abbotsford
155. driving to Mission and seeing the beauty of the mountains
156. warm hug from Cathy
157. reflection stations around Cathy's house
158. meeting C and getting a big warm hug
159. meeting J and hearing her heart
160. feeling a connection finally with someone who I have been trying to connect wtih 
161. the beautiful aroma in Cathy's house
162. the soft fur of the cat
163. warmth of the fireplace at Cathy's
164. walking the labrynth at Cathy's (she was the inspriation for ours here)
165. gathering in circle
166. heartfelt sharing
167. driving up steep steep roads, and also driving down them
168. the gift of silence
169. amazing supper with our Anam Cara circle
170. saltiness of the chicken  - so very tasty
171. berries, whipped cream and pavlova
172. warm hugs good bye
173. quick selfie with Cathy
174. more of the spicy cinnamon jellybeans
175. shutting the door, saying good-bye to the Mark Centre
176. second unexpected ride to Mission
177. stopped to take pictures of clouds and mountains
178. serenaded by Cathy's music - the song Beautiful Presence
179. effortless checkins at the airport(s)
180. safe plane flight home
181. welcome embrace of my sweet Man
182. catching up on life at home
183. a day alone to rest post trip
184. Juncos on my front dec
185. tiny Junco footprints in the snow
186. thankful for Grant who took a look at my jaw and gave me a 100 year old medication for the pain
187. safe inside during the snowstorm
188. wisdom of my childre in making a big decision
189. round table conversation about women in leadership
190. warmth of my car seat on my back and butt
191. blustery snow looks like a shaken snow globe
192. time with grandchildren on snow day - M & M
193. baking paska
194. yummy cream cheese icing
195. sending paska home to each family
196. messages with my sister Heather
197. seeing Robins during the storm - knowing His eye is on the Sparrow and Robin too
198. deckwalking during the storm days
199. amazing taste of homemade hot sweet mustard on ham
200. Ham ... yum
201. good conversation with my kids over pie and coffee at Easter meal on Good Friday
202. warm sun melting the snow
203. orange mailboxes in garden bring a pop of colour amidst the snow
204. baking with Matilda Joy T!
205. delicious taste of lemon orange infused paska with cream cheese icing
206. no more throbbing jaw
207. absence of sciatica pain
208. listening to the message from "D-Dog"
209. Roger healing from Covid
210. Hugs 
211. Good Friday Service
212. Pastor Bruce and Nancy - boy will I miss them!
213. Chocolate Easter egg hunt with kids
214. watching kids at Jurassic Quest
215. talking with Roger about being "too old" for activities at JQ
216. seeing the lit up signs and the cross at Kilcona Church
217. Easter Sunday HE IS RISEN!!
218. tears .. my heart is moved
219. Sandi Patti son's - "We Shall Behold Him"
220. Choir at Kilcona Church
221. our 8 kids in SS
222. flagging in church 
223. flagging with our SS kids in SS
224. Everly's impromtu hugs at church
225. Smiles and conversations
226. Sandy
227. Afternoon coffee with Nelson & Mary-Ann
228. my siblings (Thomas)
229. my siblings (Klassen)
230. my nieces - both sides
231. my nephews - both sides
232. my Great Nieces and Nephews
233. Cleo came home from hospital!
234. Anticipation of receiving my CPP pay beginning in June
235. the sound of honking geese
236. water dripping off the roof
237. icicles that shine
238. delicious saltiness of ham soup
239. making the ham soup with Alvin 
240. sending food to the neighbour
241. the smell of wood burning in the wood stove
242. spontaneous hug from Alvin 
243. the text replies to HE IS RISEN
244. more ... good fresh coffee with cream
245. again, I am thankful for our new car
246. birds in the window feeder - kicking up seeds
247. anticipation of our trip to the East Coast
248. anticipation of our trip to California in 2023
249. tonights session 3 zoom with Sisters Loved by God and more of Ann Voskamp
250. More of Cathy Hardy's music playing
251. Lection 365 app
252. Anam Cara group
253. gathering from Holy Saturday
254. conversation via message with Mrs C and a reminer to pray pray pray
255. sermon prep
256. Robin is up close to the window
257. honking of geese
258. birds flying, catching the wind
259. remembering the altar I built in Anola
260. the writings of Ann Voskamp
261. I got out of bed this morning - thank you for breath - and being alive!
262. Blue Sky
263. more sunshine
264. Sunday snow has stopped
265. warm heatin pads
266. sitting in front of the fireplace
267. Laughter!!
268. the chatter of people at church
269. excitement after a service
270. seeing the children rush to their parents
271. children returning after being gone so long due to covid
272. more coffee
273. silence ... ah, its so good for my soul
274. email encouragements
275. prayer
276. the easy way we can sit, be, commune with LOVE
277. footprints across the snow in our yard
278. neighbour paying Alvin for his work
279. big bags of Easter treats being dropped off for the children 
280. Reese's peanut butter eggs ... something about chocolate and peanut butter
281. supper at W & B - good fellowship over a meal
282. Ribs - yum
283. orgaizing tax stuff
284. my Bible!!  Thank you LORD for your WORD
285. the ability to work in ministry
286. our Everetts love for hockey 
287. Rogers love for flag football
288. Matilda's love for synchro 
289. Maverick's love for karate
290. the rules from Sensi Steve - so good for life
291. praying for a friend making a big decison in life/work
292. the beauty of the perfect Easter Lily and hydrangeas that are so beautiful
293. relationships
294. memories of grandparents/parents and what they have passed on as a legacy
295. laughing with my sweetheart till the tears run down our faces
296. cold pillows to snuggle at night
297. laying beside my husband and feeling warm, loved and secure
298. friendships that span over 50 years
299. covid free still (feel like it is a matter of time)
300. Friends and family recovering from Covid
301. sitting down with husband over lunch
302. putting my hands into the hot hot water to do the dishes in the sink
303. the sound of the dishwasher cleaning the dishes
304. seeing that an old friend made it "big" in Toronto/film (He was severely handicapped)
305. eating the last paska bun and enjoying it
306. temperature that is 2 above today - a nice change
307. the love of my daughters - Ashley and Leah
308. the love of my son's - Joshua and Michael
309. the strength that my children have - body, soul, mind and spirit - thank you LORD
310. the strength and ability of my husband!!  Thank you LORD
311. hearing the sound of water coming out of the eaves trough
312. beating last weeks steps number
313. good water that feeds my body
314. the groaner jokes of my husband
315. praying for someone special during a period of waiting
316. the reality of knowing that God is fully Sovereign and in control even when it seems like things are out of control
317. the fragrance of diffusing essential oils
318. the chirping serenade of birds in the trees
319. the beauty of the Lord's Prayer
320. blogposts of a friend who is nearing Heaven
321. writing my story
322. the portraits of my kids with their family that sit on my piano
323. hearing that a colorado low that comes the end of this week - may bring more rain than snow
324. having a sweet man who can figure out and fix anything
325. living in a country that is not in war 
326. chocolate pie with whipping cream (the last piece - shhhh don't tell anyone lol)
327. having the joy of hearing someone pray for me
328. watching my grandchildren interact with one another
329. seeing the relationship of my kids with their kids
330. starry skies

Well ... that's it for today ... I should be at 336 but I think they will come when I do the ones for tomorrow!

Thankful,

Joy